You are here:

Q&A: Heart care with cardiologist Dr. Peter Correnti

Helping heart patients regain quality of life Peter Correnti, DO, has been a cardiologist for 15 years.

As the medical director of the nationally accredited Cardiac Rehabilitation Program at Mercy Fitzgerald Hospital, he enjoys the rewards that come with seeing heart patients regain an active, healthy lifestyle.

Q. What does Mercy Fitzgerald’s cardiac Rehabilitation Program offer its patients?

Our goal is to provide a comprehensive wellness program for patients who’ve had a cardiac event such as a heart attack or heart failure, or who have experienced a surgical intervention such as open-heart surgery or a stent implant. We care for each patient as an individual, with genuine concern for their physical and emotional well-being.

Q. How do you help heart patients move forward?

We have a dedicated cardiac rehab facility where we offer exercise training and nutritional education. We talk to patients about psychosocial issues to help them adjust to the emotional aspects of having a heart condition. All of these elements contribute to increased stamina, better quality of life and improved outcomes.

Q. How does that rehab team tailor its care?

Our health care team provides each patient with an extensive medical evaluation to assess vital signs including blood pressure, heart rate, blood oxygen and overall health. The results allow us to develop an exercise program that meets individual needs.

Q. What do you want every woman to know about cardiovascular disease?

Heart disease is the No. 1 health risk for women in the United States. Here in rehab, we see this reality every day. Learn about your heart disease risk. If your instincts tell you that something’s not right, see your doctor, ask questions and take preventive action.